Reflecting On 2015

Trees Reflection On Water

Looking back on 2015, I would have to say that it has been a very good year for both my lovely wife and me.  We remained healthy and celebrated our 29th year of marriage in December.

It was also with great joy that the remodel of our rental apartment was completed in April.  There were days I wondered if the project would ever end; the last 5% of the job took forever.  The owners of the local building supply store had tears in their eyes when I announced that the job was finished.  If you have never remodeled a house, you are missing out on one of life’s great experiences.  The rule of thumb to remember is that it always takes twice as long as you planned and will cost a whole lot more than you budgeted.

I enjoyed my many hours volunteering as a docent at our local maritime museum this past year. When doing tours for school kids, we now divide them into groups of seven to ten students.  It is so much fun to be able to interact with them one on one; their insights and enthusiasm never fail to amaze me.

Astoria continues to be visited by ocean going cruise ships in the spring and fall.  As a member of the local cruise host organization, I spent many hours greeting visitors from all over the world. Could there be a better job than standing on a street corner and telling people where to go?

I am looking forward to many new adventures in the New Year.

My Favorite "Go To" Place

South Jetty Fort Stevens State Park

Today we received a welcomed break from the wet and wild weather that has been a near constant companion this winter.  Despite the sunny skies, there was a brisk wind blowing from the east and the temperature hovered just above forty degrees.  Monte, I know that you are chuckling, but for us that’s a bit on the cool side!
I spent time with the camera watching the waves crash into the South Jetty, my “go to” place,  I never leave there uninspired!